Volume 2, Issue 1 - The Friendly City Spotlight, Rohnert Park, CA
MARCH 7, 2025 | VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1
Photos Page 2 and 3: More fun from our senior outing to Scandia, plus a glimpse into Rohnert Park’s 1st Annual Small Grants Award Ceremony, where we proudly awarded grant funds to local nonprofits dedicated to supporting our community!
Earlier this month, Home Is Where the Art Is brought our community together for an incredible celebration of creativity and support. Thanks to you, 32 artworks found new homes, raising $3,300 for local artists and Home First. We’re proud to support the arts, housing, and our community—check out some of the amazing art!
Marlo/Alo wrote us a letter letting us know about his new
Rohnert Park has a lot of business talent. Let them know how awesome they are, by voting for them!
Free medical services in Rohnert Park!
Want to get involved with the Sonoma County Grand Jury? Want to boost your digital literacy skills Check out more here!!
You delivered now it’s time for us to deliver your $50 gift card winner! Find out more inside!!
Meet them inside...and find out how you can join our City Council meetings!
Look inside for the latest and greatest job opportunities with the City!
Let's Shine a Spotlight on Rohnert Park! The Best of the North Bay Biz 2025 voting is your chance to celebrate the amazing businesses that make our community thrive! From our favorite cafes to our trusted service providers, Rohnert Park is packed with talent. Voting closes Friday, March 7th, 2025, so don't miss your opportunity to show your love! Cast your ballot and help our local stars get the recognition they deserve. Plus, vote in at least 12 categories for a chance to win a fantastic dinner! Let's rally together and make Rohnert Park proud!
Access to healthcare is about to improve for uninsured residents of Rohnert Park!
Starting Monday, March 3, 2025, the Providence Mobile Health Clinic will be stationed at the Rohnert Park People Services Center every Monday to provide free medical care to those in need
The initiative, a partnership between Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital and the Petaluma People Services Center, aims to address gaps in healthcare access by offering crucial services on a drop-in basis no appointment necessary.
Who Can Benefit?
The clinic is primarily designed for uninsured individuals, offering: Evaluation and treatment of acute and chronic conditions
Sports physicals
Seasonal flu vaccinations
Additionally, some services will be open to the general public, including: Health screenings for blood pressure and blood sugar
Referrals and resources connecting individuals to local healthcare agencies and clinics
Convenient, Confidential Care
The mobile clinic, located at 6800 Hunter Drive, Rohnert Park, will operate Mondays from 9 a m to 12 noon (excluding holidays) Services are confidential and free, ensuring accessible care for all.
Sonoma Library is offering free workshops on internet basics, cybersecurity, email, and more from March to May 2025 at all library locations Sessions will be available in both English and Spanish. Plus, every participant gets a FREE 8GB flash drive! "Thanks to a grant from the Public Library Association, we ' re excited to help everyone boost their tech skills," said Jessica Romero, Community Engagement Manager See the full schedule here: sonomalibrary.org/computerbasics
Want to make a real impact in your community? The 2025-26 Sonoma County Civil Grand Jury is accepting applications through May 2, 2025 Help investigate local issues, review county agencies, and improve government services. If you ' re curious and civic-minded, apply today! Learn more and apply at Sonoma County Grand Jury Information or email gjury@sonomacounty.org.
CALIFORNIAPARK &RECREATION SOCIETYDISTRICT1
75TH ANNUAL AWARDS AND INSTALLATION BANQUET
Michael Albertoli – A Driving Force of Kindess
The Rohnert Park Senior Center is fortunate to have many dedicated volunteers, and Michael Albertoli is a shining example of the incredible impact they have Since 2016, Michael has been a volunteer driver for the Senior Center’s Sunshine Bus transportation program, providing over 475 rides to local seniors in Rohnert Park, Cotati, and Penngrove during his tenure Michael provides transportation services to seniors in Rohnert Park, Cotati, and Penngrove who can no longer drive, are unable to use public transportation, or don’t have access to family or friends for rides. His reliability and ever-present charm make him a true gem in our community.
Michael drives a city-provided van, offering door-to-door service for seniors. Whether it’s a trip to the grocery store, a gym visit, a hair appointment, or a doctor’s office, Michael ensures seniors get to their destinations safely and with a smile
In addition to his regular routes, Michael also volunteers his time as a driver for the Senior Center’s day trips Thanks to his help, seniors have had the chance to experience outings to destinations such as Armstrong Woods, the Buck Institute, and the Marine Mammal Center just to name a few Michael’s cheerful presence always adds to the joy of these adventures
The impact Michael has made on the Senior Center and the lives of the seniors he serves is immeasurable. His warm personality, love of speaking Italian, and eagerness to want to accept every driving request have made him a beloved member of the community. The Senior Center simply wouldn’t be the same without him.
Michael is truly the heart and soul of the Sunshine Bus Program, and we are grateful for all he continues to do!
Únase a nosotros para un evento de Conozca sus Derechos el jueves 27 de marzo de 6 PM a 7 PM en colaboración con las ciudades de Rohnert Park, Cotati y Petaluma. Aprenda sobre diferentes escenarios, planes de seguridad, formularios de evaluación y acceda a materiales gratuitos como Tarjetas Rojas. Haga clic aquí para obtener más información.
Join us for a Know Your Rights event on Thursday, March 27th, from 6 PM to 7 PM in collaboration with the cities of Rohnert Park, Cotati, and Petaluma. Learn about different scenarios, safety plans, screening forms, and access free materials like Red Cards. Click here for more details!
GOREQUESTAPP UPGRADE!
Are you a GoRequest user? Then it’s time to upgrade to Reach Rohnert Park! Download it in your phone’s app store and let us know what we can fix.
You can also report issues directly on the City’s website: REPORT ISSUES HERE
If you need to report any non-emergency issue around the city, do so in our newest app: Reach Rohnert Park!
FLOODEDSTREETS
STREETLIGHT PROBLEMS
WHO’STHEBIGRESTAURANT WINNER???
We asked...and you delivered.
Now it’s time for us to deliver...a pot of gold ($50 dollar gift card) to one lucky winner! And that winner is....
Xochitl A.
Representing E Section, congratulations to Xochitl!!! Xochitl has chosen Carmen’s La Hacienda as her restaurant for the $50 dollar gift card. And might we say...excellent choice. But really, there are no bad choices when it comes to our local restaurants!!
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY IMPACT ROHNERT PARK FOUNDATION HOSTS SMALL GRANTS AWARD CEREMONY
On Friday, February 21, the Rohnert Park Foundation hosted the 2024-2026 Small Grants Award Ceremony, recognizing local nonprofits dedicated to enhancing the community. With nearly $210,000 in grant requests received, the Foundation awarded funding to initiatives focused on STEM education, food security, mental health awareness, youth programs, and community beautification.
You can find a complete list of the awarded nonprofits and their projects HERE.
Mayor Gerard Giudice emphasized the vital role of nonprofits, stating, “All of the services that our residents expect we can't do it all on our own We need to have nonprofits out there doing those great works.”
City Manager Marcela Piedra encouraged organizations to plan ahead for future funding, adding, “The Foundation Board has agreed to set aside up to $300,000 every two years to offer to our nonprofit community. So start thinking about what other projects you may have in mind for the next cycle because there is a commitment ” The Federated Indians of the Graton Rancheria were also recognized for their generous support, which has been essential in making this program possible
With grant projects launching in February 2025, the city looks forward to seeing these initiatives create lasting positive change.
www.reallygreatsite.com
LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
For 21 years, Prado Heating & Air has been a cornerstone of the Sonoma County community, providing top-notch service and building lasting relationships with their customers. Located on Snyder Lane just outside of Rohnert Park, this family-owned and operated business, serving primarily Sonoma and Marin Counties, has earned a stellar reputation for treating every client like family.
Einar Prado, the company’s founder, built the business from the ground up His wife, Livia, a former high school teacher, joined him after budget cuts impacted education, making Prado’s Plumbing Heating & Air a true family affair. Today, their eldest son, Jaxon Crothers, a U.S. Army Infantry veteran, serves as foreman, carrying on the tradition of excellence. Jaxon even has his own apprentice now, demonstrating Prado’s commitment to training the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Prado’s Plumbing, Heating & Air specializes in residential and some commercial HVAC services, including work for local hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn near the airport, and larger communities such as Oakmont. While they don't specialize in new construction, their expertise lies in maintaining and optimizing existing systems. Their commitment to quality is evident in everything they do. From their long-tenured installation crews who treat every home with respect, leaving it cleaner than they found it, to their dedication to providing honest, no-pressure service, Prado’s Plumbing, Heating & Air prioritizes customer satisfaction above all else "We treat our customers the same way we treat our parents and grandparents," says Livia This philosophy has earned them loyal customers for over two decades
Prado’s Plumbing Heating & Air is also helping customers prepare for upcoming changes in HVAC regulations. With gas HVAC systems being phased out in 2030, they are assisting homeowners with navigating rebates for heat pump water heaters and electric HVAC heat pumps, working directly with Sonoma Clean Power to secure those incentives.
Right now, they're offering a special deal on HVAC cleaning for just $89! This is the perfect opportunity to ensure your system is running safely and efficiently Act now, because this offer won’t last
Whether you prefer phone, text, or email, Livia ensures that every communication is promptly addressed. Reach out to Prado’s Plumbing, Heating & Air today and experience the difference that 21 years of dedicated service makes. They are more than just a Plumbing and HVAC company; they are your neighbors, committed to keeping Sonoma County comfortable, one home at a time
LOCALBUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Kelly's Appliance Center: A Golden Anniversary of Fixing What's Broken
Rohnert Park, CA – As we celebrate the rich history of our friendly city, we ' re thrilled to shine the spotlight on a local business that's been fixing what's broken for half a century: Kelly's Appliance Center
Founded in 1975 by Bob Kelly (who turned away from the turmoil of the labor market of Mongomery Ward and McPhails in the 1970s and founded Kelly’s), Kelly's Appliance Center has been providing top-notch appliance repair services to the Sonoma County community With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and a deep-rooted connection to Rohnert Park (the Kellys have been local residents for over 30 years – M Section represent!), Kelly's has become a trusted name in the industry
Mark Kelly, the current owner, started working part-time at 12, swearing he'd never work in the appliance business But, as fate (and a bit of parental nudging) would have it, he found himself drawn to the rewarding nature of helping people and the opportunity to serve the community
That commitment starts from within.
Kelly's Appliance is a true family affair, with deep roots in the area. Just like Mark, the current owner, did as a kid, his own children worked in the business through high school summers and weekends That same spirit extends to their employees, many of whom have grown with the company over the years.
Take Dane Marcy, for example He joined Kelly's back in 2012 after working at Tuff Shed, and has been a cornerstone of the business for the past 13 years, now serving as Service Manager. Then there's Kendra Hoetger, their Office Manager Kendra, a proud E Section resident and Evergreen Elementary and Rancho Cotate High School grad (Go Cougars!), started as a part-time customer service rep and worked her way up to running the whole office! It's a testament to Kelly's belief in promoting from within.
Kelly’s Appliance has a fascinating history. They experienced a boom in the 1990s when Mark's dad became the go-to dishwasher installer for Sears in San Rafael Sears was swamped with orders, and Mark's dad, through building relationships with the sales team, became their unofficial subcontractor. This eventually led to Kelly's officially coming on board with Sears, requiring them to hire even more technicians to keep up with the demand!
In 2006, they moved to Cotati, but soon faced a downturn. They adapted, tightened up their hiring practices, and found their current home in Cotati in 2010 That same year, Mark brought a struggling appliance sales business from San Rafael into Kelly’s, which turned the business around and helped it become solvent!
Today, Kelly's is an authorized service provider for major brands like Bosch, Thermador, Whirlpool, Maytag, and Dacor, ensuring they can handle all your appliance needs. Mark's vision for the future? To keep the business local, continue serving this wonderful community, and even explore employee ownership! It’s clear that Kelly’s Appliance isn’t just about fixing appliances; they’re about building a legacy of service, community, and family.
To commemorate their 50th anniversary, Kelly's Appliance Center will be throwing a 50th Anniversary Bash that is sure to be full of food, fun, and festivities!
A Golden Anniversary, A Golden Standard
As Kelly's Appliance Center celebrates this golden anniversary, they continue to set the standard for appliance repair in Sonoma County. Their commitment to excellence, coupled with their friendly and knowledgeable staff, has made them a beloved local business. The Golden Anniversary is a testament to their dedication to providing excellent service and building strong relationships with their customers From humble beginnings to a thriving business, Kelly's has consistently adapted to the changing needs of the community.
PUBLIC WORKS
EXCITING CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS IN ROHNERT PARK!
We're making major upgrades throughout the city to improve roads, parks, safety, and community spaces! Here’s a snapshot of what’s coming:
Snyder Lane/Keiser Traffic Signal Project (CIP1718)
We’re enhancing Snyder Lane with a new traffic signal, updated sidewalks, bike-friendly improvements, and smoother roads We are also widening Snyder Lane to two travel lanes in each direction. This will make commuting safer and more efficient. Construction starts Summer 2025.
Contact: Julian De Anda, 707-588-3317
A&B Sections Neighborhood Road Repairs (CIP2205)
Fresh pavement is coming! Streets in the A&B neighborhood will receive much-needed maintenance, including crack sealing, repairs, weed/vegetation abatement and new striping Look forward to smoother roads by late Summer 2025
Contact: Julian De Anda, 707-588-3317
Trail to Crane Creek Regional Park (CIP0719)
We’re extending the Copeland Creek Trail all the way to Crane Creek Regional Park. This scenic new trail will include bridges, improved drainage, and a pedestrian-friendly crossing at Laurel Drive Expected completion by Spring 2026
Contact: Julian De Anda, 707-588-3317
New Public Works Admin Building (CIP1807)
A modern, centralized home for our hardworking Public Works Utilities team is on the way This project includes a new office building and a secured parking lot with EV charging to support the City’s growing electric vehicle inventory. Set to open Spring 2026.
Contact: Laura Luchini, 707-588-3308
Civic Center Drive Playground Replacement (CIP2207)
A brand-new playground is coming to Civic Center Drive. We’re gathering community input to design a fun and inclusive play space for all ages. Construction begins in Summer 2025.
Contact: Terrie Zwillinger, 707-588-3331
Dowdell Avenue Extension – Phase 1 (CIP2020)
We’re improving access to Business Park Drive with a new emergency vehicle road. Future phases will create a fully connected roadway for two-way traffic. This work will include a water line connection from Business Park Drive to Golf Course Drive and installation and connection of a storm drain at Golf Course Drive West The first phase will be ready by Winter 2025.
Contact: Laura Luchini, 707-588-3308
Pump Station & Sewer Line Upgrades (CIP1709)
We’re reinforcing key sewer infrastructure with new coatings, upgraded ventilation, and pipe replacements at Pump Station No 2 and Wilfred/Arlington Work wraps up by late Summer 2025
Contact: Julian De Anda, 707-588-3317
Emergency Public Safety Radio System Upgrade (CIP2412)
Our public safety radio system is getting a much-needed update with new dispatch consoles and improved radio antennas to keep our first responders connected The current consoles have reached the end of their useful life and are no longer supported. Expected completion by late Summer 2025.
Contact: Terrie Zwillinger, 707-588-3331
Public Safety Battery Backup Replacement (CIP2503)
We’re replacing the City Hall server ’ s backup power system to ensure uninterrupted emergency services. Installation happening in Spring 2025.
Contact: Terrie Zwillinger, 707-588-3331
Pickleball & Tennis Court Renovations (CIP2307)
Attention pickleball and tennis enthusiasts! Sunrise Park’s pickleball courts and Magnolia Park’s tennis courts are getting resurfaced and restriped for better play. Expected completion in Spring 2026.
Contact: Laura Luchini, 707-588-3308
City Hall Energy Upgrades (CIP2501)
We’re making City Hall more efficient with new smart lighting, HVAC replacements, and a new roof. Construction kicks off in Summer 2025.
Contact: Terrie Zwillinger, 707-588-3331
Citywide Street Maintenance (CIP2508)
Various streets will get fresh pavement, striping, and curb ramp improvements to keep our roads in top shape Happening Summer–Fall 2025
A major transformation is underway, bringing protected bike lanes, new sidewalks, a reduction of vehicle lanes to two travel lanes (one in each direction), separated by a center median with turn pockets, better lighting, and beautification along Southwest Boulevard Finishing by late Spring 2025
Contact: Jason Sampietro, 707-588-2235
Benicia Park Concession Building Repair (No Project No. Assigned)
After fire damage, we ’ re restoring the Benicia Park concession stand with new electrical, countertops, and walls Back in service by Fall 2025
Contact: Terrie Zwillinger, 707-588-3331
These projects are designed to improve safety, connectivity, and quality of life in Rohnert Park. Exciting changes are on the way—stay tuned!
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A LETTER FROM MARLO
Hi shelter friends,
Alo here—though my new human insists on calling me Marlo!
It’s been a few weeks since I left your care (thanks for everything!) so I wanted to check in. I live in E section now with a big yard and a doggy door, so I can go outside anytime. I love snoozing in the sun while my human works inside.
When the weather’s bad, I have plenty of comfy indoor spots—the primary couch, the office couch, and sometimes even my human’s bed! We walk twice a day, 1-1.5 miles in the morning and 2-3 in the afternoon, exploring neighborhoods, the golf course, Taylor Mountain, Crane Creek, and even the beach.
With all this adventure, I’ve lost all my extra weight down to a svelte 83 lbs from nearly 100! The vet says I’m right on target, and I know you’d be proud.
That’s my update hope you ’ re all doing well!
Love,
Marlo
MEET YOUR CITY COUNCIL
The Rohnert Park City Council is elected by the Rohnert Park voters to serve for four-year terms There are five members of the Council, including a Mayor and a Vice Mayor.
The City Council adopts goals and policies during Council meetings to set the direction for the City. The Council approves and adopts the City's Financial Plans, General Plan and the Capital Improvement Plan
The City Council appoints the City Manager, the City Attorney, and members of City Commissions, Committees, and Boards.
To find your district, please click here and simply type in your address at the top-right search bar of the interactive map.
CITYCOUNCIL MEETINGS
The City of Rohnert Park welcomes your participation at City Council meetings at 5:00 p m , on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month.
If you are interested in learning about issues going on in your own backyard, community events, and other hot topics, please feel free to watch on Cable Channel 26, YouTube, or by clicking here.
Come get involved!
Want to receive email notifications when agendas are posted? Subscribe here.
UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 | 5:00 p.m.
Rohnert Park City Council Chambers
130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 | 5:00 p.m.
Rohnert Park City Council Chambers
130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
Sign-up for agenda posting notifications
Visit Meeting Central here to sign-up for email updates
Review Agenda Materials
Visit Meeting Central at here to view agenda materials for upcoming and past meetings
Attend the meeting in-person or watch live from home
Meeting Central YouTube Cable Channel 26
Provide Public Comment
Provide public comment in-person during the meeting or from home by emailing your comment to publiccomment@rpcity.org
#CONNECT
JOIN OUR TEAM!
Looking to apply for a new position, or know someone interested in joining our team?
Check out our latest open positions! Click here to learn more or apply.
$79,988.64 - $97,226.88 Annually Open until filled
$21.00 - $24.00 Hourly
$21.00
$60,962.04
$67,895.88 - $91,094.16 Annually
OPERATOR II/III
$61,876 - $91,637.04 Annually
Open until filled
WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR I/II
$67,895.88 - $91,094.16 Annually Open until filled
WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR I/II/III
$61,876.44 - $91,637.04 Annually Open until filled
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY SERVICES
I HEART ROHNERT PARK BE KIND, UNWIND
NATIONAL RANDOM ACTS OF KINDESS WEEK
SENIOR PROM
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION DINNER
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
BARK IN THE PARK
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER COMPLEX 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
MAY 26
RP JUBILEE
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER COMPLEX 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
THE HAUNT: BREW & SCARE FEST
HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL
VETERAN’S DAY EVENT
MEMORIAL DAY EVENT
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER 10:00 AM
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER 11:00 AM
PARTY ON THE PLAZA
CIVIC CENTER PLAZA | FRIDAYS 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
ROHNERT PARK SENIOR CENTER | AGES 55+ 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM 27 MAY 03 JUN 19 JUN - AUG DEC JUL OCT OCT NOV 06 04 24 25 11 09-15 2025
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER COMPLEX 11:00 AM NOV
HOLIDAY ARTS & CRAFTS FAIRE
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
HOLIDAY LIGHTS + REC T H E HALLS
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER COMPLEX 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER COMPLEX 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 707-588-3465 VISIT: WWW.RPCITY.ORG
ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER COMPLEX 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM & FARMERS MARKET & DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS 28-29 Plan Your Year of Fun! Click here to check out the latest Rohnert Park Recreation Guide for classes, events, and activities for all ages.
